Lecce : 3 hours Hike in maria di Leuca the southern Tip of Puglia





Description
This interesting and fascinating 3 hours Hike embraces History, local villages, sea and country side surroundings.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Meeting point. From Lecce private transportation to the start of the Hike. The drive is 1 hour long. I can also come and pick you up from anywhere south of brindisi Like Nardo, Gallipoli, Otranto etc
Starting point of the Hike. Along Puglia's southly Adriatic coast, the rocky reefs highlight the intense blue of the water at Marina di Novaglie.The area saw ancient settlements by indigenous people and by the Greeks. Few traces remain now. The more recent history of basilian monks in the 9th century did leave some marks, most notably in caves that were used as rock churches.
After 2.6 kms (40mins) hiking along the coastline stop at Ponte Ciolo. Ciolo is a narrow coastal inlet and a site of historical and environmental interest. Possibility to take a swim.
After 3,7 kms (55mins) hiking uphill along a natural canyon to Gagliano del capo. In Gagliano del Capo, an authentic Salentinian Village, we do a Coffee brake. You can try some salentinian delicatessen like Rustico and Pasticciotto and drink a traditional Caffe Leccese.
After 5,7 (75mins) walk a flat path back to the coast line surrounded by olive trees, agricultural fields and Paglaras huts (salento version of Trulli). The hike ends at Santa Maria di Leuca iconic lighthouse. With its height of 47 metres, and position at 102 metres above sea level, is the second most important lighthouse in Italy, after Genova. Next to the lighthouse is the large Sanctuary, or Basilica, De Finibus Terrae ("End of the Land", 1720-1755), built to commemorate the passage of St. Peter here during his travel to Italyhe end of the Hike. The two seas meeting each other. end of the via Francigena walk.
Here you can choose 1) Light lunch Like Piadina or Puccia (salentinian sandwich) (Not included) at the most local Bar in town. OR 2) Proper fresh fish lunch in a splendid location with Harbour and sea view.[RECCOMENDED OPTION]. OR 3) No lunch -LUNCH IS NOT INCLUDED-
End of the day. The drive back to Lecce from Santa maria di Leuca is 1 hour long. I can also take you back to any of the towns south of Brindisi Like Nardo Otranto Gallipoli etc
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(11)
Challenging hike with beautiful views! Marco was a great host and very responsive to questions and requests. Highly recommend taking a dip in the swimming hole and book lunch at the fish restaurant!! The first part of the hike is beautiful and scenic. The latter part was not as desirable/scenic as it was a long walk through fields/roads and not much shade. Overall though it was a fun experience and would highly recommend it.
Was a beautiful hike along the coast. Marco was an excellent host, very responsive and fun. Definitely recommend the swimming hole as it was a memorable experience. Parts of the hike are definitely challenging, be sure to bring water and sunblock. Was not a fan of the last part of the hike as it was through the countryside....took about 1 1/2 hrs and views at this part were unimpressive with no shade. We chose the fish restaurant at the end for lunch and so glad we did-that was a fantastic time! Overall was a great experience and would recommend it!
Marco was extremely responsive and helpful before our trip. He arranged our transport to the hike and lunch at a wonderful seafood restaurant after our hike. The hike along the coast was beautiful. Marco was informative about the country, history and flora.
We hiked with Marco today and the experience was magical. From his knowledge of the area and history, the scenery of the trails, and the exploration of local shops made this one of the best days of total immersion into the local culture we’ve experienced in a long time.
Phenomenal experience, this is a must-book in Puglia! We loved every moment of this hike and the landmarks we visited. Breathtaking views with Marco and his team, who were always there to guide, encourage, and point out local flora. The team’s knowledge and charisma made every step enriching and fun. One of the best highlights of my trip—highly recommend!
Yes I agree its fantastic to walk by the water on this trail where the sea meets the rocky cliffs. Discover caves, rudimental houses and capers plants. The most stunning views of southern Puglia.
Absolutely enjoyed hiking Cammino del Salento to Ponte Ciolo along the coast of the Adriatic Sea with Marco and Nicolas from Puglia Bike Experience! It was a gorgeous day, and I couldn't have asked for better guides for our group. After taking in the sights along the hike and in Ponte Ciolo, we then made our way to Santa Maria di Leuca - the southernmost tip of Italy - where we got to see the Basilica Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae and one of the tallest lighthouses in Europe! I highly recommend this tour and hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Grazie mille for your kind words! Are you ready for the next adventure?
We had the most incredible day exploring the cliffs and coastline of southern Italy. The views along the trail were absolutely breathtaking — turquoise water, rugged limestone, and wildflowers everywhere. Our guide, Marco, was fantastic: knowledgeable, patient, and clearly passionate about the history and nature of the area. We ended the hike perfectly with a refreshing dip in the Ionian Sea followed by a Hugo spritz overlooking the water. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience — highly recommend to anyone visiting Salento! 🌿🇮🇹✨
What a perfect Day Hanna! Thanks to you and yours friends. This Leuca hike is definitely a special one! see you next year. Marco
Marco organizes great adventures. And this hike where the two seas meet is one of them. The first part of the hike is absolutely breath taking. There is a side trail that is also worth descending to a cave over hang. The first portion of the hike brings you to a bridge and a pristine cove for swimming. Some of our friends braved the cold waters and loved every minute of it. We also had lunch at the bridge. It was a lovely view. Check out the images.
Grazie Linda! i hope to see you and your friends next year for another Yoga retreats combined with my outdoor adventures. A big hug from Lecce
If you’re headed to Puglia — DO NOT MISS booking with Marco and his team at Puglia Bike Experience! We did a hike along the beautiful coastline of Salento, ending in Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost tip of Puglia — and it was absolute magic. Marco is everything you hope for in a guide — knowledgeable, warm, and passionate about showing you the hidden beauty of this region. He knows every secret trail, and every panoramic spot. What I loved most was how authentic the entire experience was. No crowds, no rush — just breathtaking views, good conversation, and that feeling of truly connecting with Puglia’s soul. Whether you hike, bike, or both — Marco’s tours are 10/10. We left with full hearts, and about a hundred photos that still don’t do it justice. I highly recommend Marco/Puglia Bike Experience. I would do it again in a heartbeat!
Grazie Susie!! This Hike to Leuca its a real adventure. I am glad you loved it! Come back and visit us next year. A big Hug to you and your daughter.
This tour with Marco was without a doubt the highlight of my week-long stay in Salento. Not only are the views along the coastline breathtaking, but strolling through the fields and all their spring flowers was such a delight. Marco is really great company - friendly, passionate and extremely helpful. He offered me many tips during my stay in Lecce and arranged an extension to the tour that was worth every bit. I am really glad to have stumbled upon this tour and I would definitely contact Marco again if coming back to Puglia. If you are visiting Salento in the spring and enjoy walking, this tour is absolutely a must-do! And otherwise be sure to check out his biking tours, I cannot imagine anyone not enjoying a tour organised by Marco.
You are always welcome my friend! thanks for the pictures you shared. Big hug from Puglia.



